The typical response when feeling hot or cold is turning on the air conditioner/heat, grabbing a blanket or even turning on a fan. By doing these, we become more comfortable no matter what the weather conditions are outside. Climate-controlled storage units have the capability to treat a tenant’s belongings just the same!
For protection, it is a growing trend among buyers and sellers
Self storage units, much like you, become hot in the warm summer weather and cold in the bitter winter. These conditions mixed with varying levels of humidity can take a toll on belongings. A climate-controlled storage unit can eliminate this issue. The industry standard temperature range is between 40 F to 90 F with 55 to 60 percent humidity, depending on the weather outside the unit. The goal of the climate control is to keep belongings in a safe environment by cooling the unit in the summer and using heat in the winter.
A climate-controlled self storage unit is created using the same frame metal as a traditional unit. This can allow for a similar look to other units. The difference is in additional insulation, heating ventilation, air conditioning and interior access. Installation and placement of these additional features will permit easy manipulation of the unit’s temperature. Climate control can include humidity and temperature control, but not always both.
Temperatures and Humidity
Additional insulation is the most cost-efficient way to keep temperatures and humidity at a desired level. By insulating the unit properly, owners will save on air conditioning costs in the future. Insulation’s R value shows its thermal performance, the higher the value, the better thermal resistance. It is recommended to use a minimum of 6 inches of fiberglass (R-19) for roofs and 4 inches (R-13) for walls. Fire-retardant insulation is also an option to use. This will increase the chances that all belonging in the storage unit will survive in the case of a facility fire.
Climate-controlled self storage units would not be achievable without heating and air conditioning. This equipment can also assist in regulating humidity within the space. To increase the efficiency of heating and air equipment, it is recommended to install units inside the building. Proper ventilation is also necessary in controlling the climate of the storage unit. Ventilation creates air movement to ensure both warm and cool air is being circulated and keeps moisture from accumulating inside.
Interior access refers to having insulated units located in the center of the lot with non-insulated units around the perimeter. The reason for the unit’s placement is that roll-up doors are difficult to insulate adequately for climate control. Large door openings can also increase energy costs because the air inside the unit will escape. Thus, having to run the heat or air conditioner for longer periods of time. Energy loss can be reduced by using a smaller door or decreasing the number of openings in the storage unit.
Numerous Advantages
Using a climate-controlled self storage unit has numerous advantages over a typical unit. Storing possessions in an ideal climate can keep them from getting damaged over time. Materials such as wood, paper, fabric and metal would benefit from climate control. For example, wood and leather will crack in high humidity and extreme temperature changes. Electronics and other metals can corrode due to moisture as the device sits in storage. A controlled climate can provide protection to these items and many others.
For a builder or storage unit owner, climate-control units can open doors to maximize profit. Tenants wanting to store valuable possessions that will be protected from humidity and harsh temperatures are willing to pay a higher price for it. On average, a climate-controlled unit can be rented for about 30 percent more than a traditional unit. In different regions of the country, especially where temperatures are harsh, the demand for climate-controlled units tends to increase. As demand increases, businesses are able to be more competitive when pricing units. Although these units are more expensive to build, a higher return on investment will result from low overhead costs and increased profits. Climate-controlled storage is a rising trend in the industry. The additional features offered by these specialized units are becoming more and more popular among buyers and sellers.
Climate control gives businesses a competitive advantage over those selling typical units. With the benefits available to tenants and the chance to grow profit for owners, these units are a perfect choice for both parties involved. Modern houses with basements and attics to store belongings in often lack the correct humidity and temperature environment to keep them safe. Climate-controlled storage units have the ability to provide tenants with quality storage space and a sigh of relief knowing their items are correctly stored in a safe place.
Megan Diehl is a summer marketing intern at Corle Building Systems, Imler, Pa. To learn more, visit www.corle.com or call (814) 276-9611.
